Budtender Networking 101: Expanding Career Opportunities Online and Offline
July 23, 2025
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, one thing remains consistent: there are always opportunities for ambitious budtenders to move up the ladder. Whether you’re dreaming of a C-suite position, want to flex your marketing chops, or even start your own brand, networking can make all the difference.
Let’s explore how budtenders can network online and in-person to open new doors and begin a long-term cannabis career. But first, you might be wondering….
Why Does Networking Matter?
Relationships drive our industry and help it thrive. Putting yourself out there, meeting new people, and building new relationships is critical if you want to progress in your career.
Making the right connections can lead to:
- Insider job info and referrals
- Mentorship
- Collaboration opportunities
- Insights into industry trends and events
How Can You Prepare for Networking?
Give yourself a networking leg up by preparing:
- A short elevator pitch about who you are (Think: 30-60 seconds)
- An updated resume (digital and print, you never know when someone might ask for it)
- A list of questions to ask various industry professionals you encounter
- A list of events you would like to attend (Hint: Check out the CannSell Newsletter for an outline of Events Across Ontario each month)
Now let’s review some networking tips for budtenders, both online and offline.
Online Networking Tips
1. Link Up on LinkedIn
Not only are there tons of cannabis professionals on LinkedIn, but the platform does not police cannabis content so you can share liberally and won’t have to worry about “getting Zucked”.
When you meet people at events, ask them to connect on LinkedIn. Follow brands, advocacy organizations, and anyone who you like or admire.
You’ll get noticed by posting thought-provoking content and/or by updating your profile with:
- A strong headline (For ex: “Experienced Budtender | Cannabis Sales & Customer Education Specialist”)
- A clear summary that shares your passion for the plant and the industry
- Skills like sales, compliance, customer service, product knowledge, and POS systems
2. Get Involved in Online Communities
These types of platforms empower you to share perspectives, hear from your peers, discuss hot topics and expand your knowledge base on brands and everything cannabis. Engaging in online discussions can help you learn, stay informed, and build relationships with people across different areas of the industry.
Try platforms like:
- High Buds Club
3. Build a Personal Brand
If you don’t already have one, building a personal brand on social media like Instagram or Tik Tok is an ideal way to stand out from the crowd and make new industry connections.
Leverage your passion and consider:
- Creating educational content that sets you apart as an expert
- Showcasing your dispensary (with permission) or your daily routine
- Sharing sales tips and tricks or your customer service philosophy
Warning: Instagram, TikTok and Facebook heavily police cannabis content. Even content that seems totally innocuous may be flagged. Proceed, but with caution, as the possibility of having your content or account deleted always exists. Many creators have backup accounts for this reason.
Offline Networking Tips
1. Attend Events, Expos and Trade Shows
Events like Kind Summer Fair, Budtender Surprise and Delight Series, BudBash and Grow Up, are filled with professionals from every corner of the industry. Local events like park seshes, puff n paint, dogs n dabs or sampling at Lit Lounge can connect you with potential mentors or future employers.
Consider how you would like to be in contact (LinkedIn, Instagram, email, etc.) and follow through by asking to stay in touch with connections that seem promising.
Bonus Tip: If you want to attend an event and it is too costly, reach out to the organizers to inquire about subsidies or volunteer opportunities.
2. Join Local Advocacy or Industry Groups
These types of groups are great for networking and learning, too. You’ll meet a diverse array of professionals who are likely to share some of your passions. Consider joining organizations like:
- NORML (North American Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws)
- CCTA (Canadian Cannabis Tourism Alliance)
- PADH (Parents Against Driving High)
3. Connect With Coworkers and Customers
The budtender role itself presents lots of opportunity for networking.
At work, you can connect with:
- Regular customers (they could have connections you might not expect in their line of work)
- Your coworkers and managers (teach and learn from each other, everyone has their own unique “origin story”)
- Brand reps and LP owners
You never know who’s connected to what—and who might be hiring.
Remember, You're Playing the Long Game
If you are motivated to expand your skill set and role, networking is critical. And since there’s no time like the present, why not get started today? Networking helps you plant seeds that could grow into your next career. So, stay curious, stay engaged and get ready, because you never know when a networking opportunity might just change your life.
This article was written by Tamara Lilien, Cannabis Educator and Consultant, CannaLily Consulting